Philadelphia: Old City History Walk & Washington War Tent

Summary

Walk cobblestone streets past liberty bell and franklin’s grave with stories that linger

You’ll walk Philadelphia’s Old City alongside a local guide who brings stories alive where they happened — from Independence Hall to Elfreth’s Alley and Franklin’s grave. Feel the weight of history at the Liberty Bell and inside Washington’s War Tent at the Museum of the American Revolution. Expect laughter, real talk, and moments that stick with you long after you leave Arch Street.

What’s the experience like?

We met up in Signer’s Garden, right by this statue I’d never noticed before — The Signer, hand raised like he was about to say something important. Our guide, Marcus, had that easy Philly way of talking, not rushed but not slow either. He pointed out how the bricks under our feet weren’t just old — they’d watched everything from horse hooves to protest marches. It was humid, kind of sticky, and the city felt awake even though it was still early. I remember the faint smell of coffee drifting from somewhere (wish I’d grabbed one).

Walking through Independence National Historical Park felt like stepping into a story you half-remember from school but never really pictured until now. Marcus stopped us outside Independence Hall — we couldn’t go in, but he made us imagine the heat inside when they signed those papers. He told us about Congress Hall and Old City Hall too; I kept glancing up at the windows wondering what arguments happened behind them. At the Liberty Bell Center, there were kids pressing their noses to the glass. The bell is smaller than I thought and more battered. Marcus explained how it became a symbol for so many movements — abolitionists, suffragettes — and suddenly it wasn’t just some cracked bell anymore.

I liked wandering Elfreth’s Alley best. The houses are narrow and close together, laundry lines strung above tiny doorways. Someone had left a bike leaning against a lamppost with a basket full of purple flowers — not sure if it was intentional or just Philly being Philly. We passed Betsy Ross House (Marcus has strong opinions about flag myths) and then Benjamin Franklin’s grave on Arch Street. People toss pennies on his grave for luck; I did too without really knowing why.

The last part was inside the Museum of the American Revolution for George Washington’s War Tent show. It’s dark in there and quiet except for the low hum of voices waiting for the curtain to lift. When you see that tent — canvas creased and faded — it hits different than reading about it in books. That was someone’s home during war, you know? Afterwards Marcus said goodbye but told us we could stay longer with discounted tickets if we wanted (I did). Walking back out into sunlight felt strange after so much history packed into two and a half hours.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Philadelphia's historic Old City

• Start at Signer’s Garden statue
• See Independence Hall and Congress Hall
• View Independence Hall exterior
• Visit Congress Hall exterior
• Visit Philadelphia Old City Hall exterior
• Learn Liberty Bell history and stories
• See Carpenters Hall exterior
• Tour Museum of the American Revolution
• Walk along Elfreth's Alley
• Pass Betsy Ross House
• Visit Benjamin Franklin’s Grave site
• See President's House and learn history

Top questions

How long is the Philadelphia Old City history tour?

The walking tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Does this tour include entry to Independence Hall?

No, you’ll see Independence Hall from outside while learning its history.

Is there a visit inside the Museum of the American Revolution?

You’ll enter for Washington's War Tent presentation; discounted museum entry after is available.

Are children or strollers allowed on this Philadelphia walking tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join in prams or strollers.

Is this Old City Philadelphia tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all routes are wheelchair accessible including nearby transportation options.

What sites do we see during this history walk?

You’ll pass Liberty Bell Center, Congress Hall, Elfreth's Alley, Betsy Ross House, Benjamin Franklin's Grave & more.

Who leads this Philadelphia history tour?

A knowledgeable local expert guide leads your group through Old City.

Is lunch included in this Philadelphia walking tour?

No meals are included on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided stroll through Philadelphia’s historic Old City with stops at landmarks like Independence Hall (from outside), Liberty Bell Center, Elfreth's Alley, Betsy Ross House, Benjamin Franklin's Grave, Carpenters’ Hall and President's House. You’ll also experience George Washington’s War Tent presentation inside the Museum of the American Revolution with an option for discounted museum entry afterwards — plus your participation supports a local historic non-profit organization.